Culinary Discovery of Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima & Osaka - 16 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo, Food Tour of Shinjuku

Welcome to Japan's vibrant capital, Tokyo! Meet your driver outside the airport and transfer to your hotel, where you can relax until this evening's food tour. Head to the lobby to meet your guide and venture out to visit an omakase sushi restaurant in Shinjuku, where skilled sushi chefs curate a personalized tasting menu. Sit down at the counter and watch as the chef prepares each piece of sushi using the freshest seasonal ingredients. End the night by testing your own cooking skills as you grill thinly sliced pieces of Wagyu beef, renowned for its exceptional marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor.

Day 2: Full-Day Tour of Tokyo's Landmarks

Enjoy a full day of exploring some of Tokyo's most iconic landmarks, starting at the Meiji Jingu Shrine, built in 1920 to commemorate Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Step through the towering torii gate into the expansive grounds enveloped in a lush forest. Follow the gravel path to the main complex to take in the grandeur of traditional Japanese architecture and witness solemn Shinto ceremonies. Participate in a ritual yourself by praying and leaving an offering at the shrine before continuing to the Tsukiji Outer Fish Market, a bustling hub for food enthusiasts.

Navigate the narrow lanes lined with stalls offering a variety of seafood-heavy dishes, such as fresh sushi or grilled scallops. Once you've had your fill, continue to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace to stroll along the meandering paths and look out at the traditional tea houses, scenic ponds, and picturesque bridges. Another highlight is a stop at Senso-ji, the oldest temple in the city, built in 645 CE. Walk down the busy shopping street of Nakamise-dori to get to the main hall adorned with sacred artifacts. On your way out, pick up an omikuji to read your fortune and end the tour.

Day 3: Full-Day Tour of the Nearby City of Yokohama

Leave Tokyo behind for the day as you drive 30 minutes south the Yokohama, a vibrant city known for its impressive waterfront skyline. Your first stop is Sankeien Garden, a tranquil oasis that blends traditional Japanese landscapes and historic architecture. Wander through the meticulously manicured gardens to see some of the structures that have been relocated from other cities, like Kyoto's Tomyo-ji, a three-story pagoda, and the intricate bridges spanning the crystal-clear waterways. Continue the tour at Yokohama Chinatown, the largest Chinatown in the country.

Step through the ornate gates and immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and savory aromas as you browse the stalls selling intricate crafts, herbal remedies, and authentic Chinese dishes like Peking duck. In the afternoon, head to the Cup Noodles Museum to learn about the history and creative process behind the beloved brand manufactured by Nissin Foods. End the tour at the Red Brick Warehouse, a port facility turned commercial complex, to stroll along the waterfront and shop at the quaint boutiques before returning to Tokyo for the night.

Day 4: Fuji Five Lakes Tour, Whisky Tasting at Fuji Gotemba Distillery

Trade the city for the countryside this morning as you transfer 1.5 hours to the Fuji Five Lakes region to see Mount Fuji from Arakurayama Sengen Park. Ascend to the Chureito Pagoda perched on the hillside for panoramic views of the snowcapped mountain against the backdrop of seasonal foliage (like pink cherry blossoms if you visit in spring). In the afternoon, jump on a boat and cruise across Lake Kawaguchi to appreciate Mount Fuji from the glassy waters. If you're not a fan of boats, you can take a ride on the Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway instead.

As the cable car gracefully ascends, enjoy sweeping views of the lake, the lush greenery, and the picturesque villages. When you reach the observation deck, look out at the snowcapped peak of Mount Fuji. After thoroughly appreciating the mountain's beauty, start the drive back to Tokyo, stopping at Fuji Gotemba Distillery on the way. Step inside and learn about the meticulous whisky-making process, from the malting to the fermentation and distillation stages. Sample the different malt and grain whiskies before returning to your hotel in the city.

Day 5: Explore Toyosu Fish Market, Visit TeamLab Planets 

Spend another morning immersing yourself in Tokyo's rich culinary scene as you head to the Toyosu Fish Market, a wholesale market where you can witness lively tuna auctions, explore a vast array of seafood stalls, and indulge in freshly prepared sushi, sashimi, and other seafood dishes in one of the numerous eateries. When you're full, continue to TeamLab Planets, a realm of interactive digital art that responds to visitors' movements and touch. Wade through knee-deep water illuminated with digital koi fish, wander through corridors of hanging lamps, and play with the different lights and sounds.

Day 6: Train to Kyoto, Partake in a Tea Ceremony, Visit the Samurai Ninja Museum

Say goodbye to Tokyo as you head to the station this morning to catch a 2.5-hour bullet train to Kyoto, the former capital of Japan. Make your way to the hotel, where you can refresh before the tea ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya. When you arrive, change into a kimono and learn about the ceremony, called sado or chanoyu. Sit down on a tatami, a type of straw mat, and join in the ritualistic preparation and consumption of matcha led by a knowledgeable tea master. 

After the ceremony, walk five minutes to the Samurai Ninja Museum. Browse the collection of authentic samurai armor, weapons, and artifacts, all showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship of these revered warriors. Watch the multimedia presentations to gain a deeper insight into the lives and philosophies of the samurai and ninja. Before you leave, try on a full samurai armor and choose from a selection of replica swords to take a commemorative picture.

Day 7: Full-Day Tour of Kyoto, Food Tour in Gion & Pontocho

Kyoto is often called Japan's cultural capital, so today you can immerse yourself in said culture, starting at the UNESCO-listed Kinkaku-ji, better known as the Golden Pavilion, as it's covered entirely in gold leaf. Stroll through the landscaped gardens and look out at the golden structure reflected in the surrounding ponds. Since you can't enter the temple, continue to another UNESCO World Heritage site, Nijo Castle, home to the first shogun (military leader) of the Edo period.

Enter the main palace to see the walls adorned with intricate paintings depicting scenes from nature and Japanese folklore. Head outside to stroll through the expansive gardens, looking out at the serene reflecting ponds. After taking in the peaceful atmosphere, visit Fushimi Inari-taisha, a shrine with over 10,000 red torii gates, all donated by individuals or businesses and inscribed with their names and wishes. Follow the torii-lined route up to the observation deck atop the mountain, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the gates and the surrounding forest.

In the evening, follow your guide through the backstreets of Gion, the geisha district, for a food tour. Stop at local restaurants to try obanzai, a style of home cooking unique to Kyoto that features a variety of small, flavorful side dishes made from seasonal ingredients, and oden, a fish cake stew, all paired with saké, a Japanese rice wine. Continue to Pontocho, a district renowned for its Japanese-style pubs called izakayas, for a drink and a sweet treat of kyo-gashi, sweet bean paste wrapped in a rich pastry, to end the night.

Day 8: Rickshaw Tour of Arashiyama

You can rest your feet today, as you explore the outskirts of Kyoto by rickshaw, a two-wheeled vehicle pulled by a guide. Start in the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where your guide will take you through the forest of towering green stalks that almost block out the sky. Continue to the nearby Togetsu-kyo, also known as "Moon Crossing Bridge," for panoramic views of the bamboo grove and the lush mountains surrounding the city. Once you cross the river, you'll be greeted by Iwatayama Monkey Park, home to over 120 Japanese macaques. 

Leave the rickshaw behind to climb up to the park's summit and interact with these curious creatures up close. Purchase food to give to the monkeys or just watch them play with each other against the backdrop of Kyoto's sprawling landscape. Jump back in the rickshaw to get to the UNESCO-listed Tenryu-ji, a Zen Buddhist temple built in the 14th century. Take a stroll through the manicured Sogenchi Garden and enter the temple's main hall to admire the traditional architecture. After exploring the temple, return to Kyoto on the rickshaw. 

Day 9: Day Trip to Uji, Explore Byodo-in, Sample Matcha-Flavored Desserts

If you love matcha, you'll enjoy today's visit to Uji, a city known for producing this beloved tea, just 30 minutes away from Kyoto. Start your tour in the heart of the city at the UNESCO-listed Byodo-in, a Buddhist temple built in the late Heian period. Explore the expansive garden full of reflective ponds, then step inside the renowned Phoenix Hall to see the towering gold-leaf statue of Amitabha Buddha. Admire the surrounding wooden carvings and intricate details that narrate the temple's history, then continue to the city center to browse the shops full of matcha products.

Sample sweet treats like daifuku, small, round mochi filled with matcha paste, or dango, matcha-flavored chewy dumplings made from rice flour. Don't fill up too much, as your next stop is Byodo-in Omotesando, a charming street lined with traditional tea houses, historic buildings, and souvenir shops. Pop in and out of the quaint shops looking for souvenirs until you work up enough of an appetite for dinner. If you're not tired of matcha yet, try matcha soba noodles or enjoy a kaiseki, a traditional multicourse meal of simmered, seasonal, and grilled dishes before returning to Kyoto.

Day 10: Sample Local Delights at Nishiki Market, Train to Hiroshima

Skip breakfast this morning so you're ready for a visit to the 400-year-old Nishiki Market, often called "Kyoto's Kitchen." Browse the hundreds of stalls offering an array of fresh produce, Kyoto specialties, and handmade goods. Sample pickled vegetables, yuba (tofu skin), Kyoto-style sushi, and other regional delights before getting a sweet matcha-flavored treat, such as mochi, ice cream, or dorayaki, a pancake filled with matcha paste. When you're full, make your own way to the station to catch a 1.5-hour bullet train to Hiroshima, the site of the world's first atomic bomb.

Day 11: Boat Cruise to Itsukushima, Visit the Peace Memorial Park

Although Hiroshima was hit by an atomic bomb in 1945, the city has since been rebuilt, and the radiation levels are extremely low, so it's completely safe to explore. Start at the pier, where you can jump on a ferry to Itsukushima, a small island in Hiroshima Bay. Disembark and stroll to Itsukushima-jinja, a torii gate that almost looks like it's floating on the water at high tide. Follow the boardwalk to see the shrine up close, dedicated to the three sea goddesses, then explore the complex's intricately designed halls, pagodas, and bridges.

In the afternoon, return to Hiroshima by ferry to visit the Peace Memorial Park, located at the epicenter of the atomic bombing. Stroll to the park's centerpiece, the skeletal remains of the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, which miraculously survived the blast. Browse the collection of personal artifacts, testimonies, and exhibits at the Peace Memorial Museum within the park to learn more about the bombing and how it affected the lives of the city and its survivors. Then, end the tour at the Flame of Peace, which will continue to burn until the world is free from nuclear weapons.

Day 12: Train to Osaka, Learn How to Make Ramen & Gyoza

Today, you head to your final destination in Japan, the port city of Osaka, often called the "Kitchen of Japan," on a 1.5-hour bullet train. After settling into your hotel, venture out to a cooking class to learn the secrets behind two of the country's most beloved dishes, ramen and gyoza. Follow the experienced chef through each step, from creating the perfect broth to mastering the art of noodle preparation and choosing the right toppings. Then, create the dough and learn how to carefully fold and fill your gyoza with ground meat and vegetables. At the end of the class, sit down to sample the fruits of your labor.

Day 13: Full-Day Tour of Osaka, Sample Street Food in Dotonbori

Join your guide for a full day of exploring some of Osaka's most prominent landmarks, starting at Osaka Castle, a grand structure that served as both a castle and fortress in the 16th century. Cross over the moat to get to the main tower, adorned with gilded embellishments and imposing stone walls. Ascend to the upper floors for panoramic views of the city's modern skyline and discover the museum within. Browse the collection of artifacts, armor, and artwork before continuing to another museum, the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living, to step back in time to the Edo period in Japan.

Day 14: Visit the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum & Himeji Castle

After breakfast, transfer 30 minutes along Osaka Bay to Kobe, Japan's seventh-largest city. Head to the Hakutsuru Saké Brewery Museum to learn about the rich history of this traditional rice wine. Discover the saké-making process, from rice polishing to fermentation and bottling, and sample one of the premium saké varieties before continuing to Kobe Harborland, nestled along the city's scenic port area. Explore the sprawling shopping complexes or just take a walk along the waterfront promenade. When you get hungry, sit down for lunch at one of the many local and international restaurants. 

In the afternoon, visit the UNESCO-listed Himeji Castle, often called the "White Heron Castle," as it resembles a majestic bird in flight. Ascend the steep stone path and navigate the labyrinthine interiors to discover the castle's ingenious defensive features, such as hidden staircases and strategic openings for archers. When you reach the top floor, take in the panoramic view of the expansive castle grounds and bustling cityscape. After exploring the castle, return to your hotel in Osaka for the night.

Day 15: Enjoy a Free Day in Osaka

Your penultimate day in Japan is yours to spend as you wish. If you like adventure, head to Universal Studios Japan, a world-class theme park with an array of rides, performances, and food based on beloved movies and TV shows. So, even if you don't like rides, you can immerse yourself in the realms of fantasy and adventure by meeting your favorite characters or sampling character-themed snacks and Japanese twists on international dishes.

Those who want a more relaxing day can enjoy a cruise along the Okawa River, passing under intricate bridges and along towering buildings. Look out for iconic landmarks on the shores, like Osaka Castle or Osaka City Hall with its distinct twin towers. Try to time your cruise just right so you can watch the sunset over the water and the city's skyline. In the evening, visit the Kuromon Ichiba Market, better known as "Osaka's Kitchen," to browse the array of stalls and try any local delights you may have missed, like kushikatsu, deep-fried skewered meat and vegetables.

Day 16: Depart Osaka

After spending 16 days eating your way across some of Japan's most iconic cities, your culinary journey comes to a close. If you have some time before your flight, you can return to the Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street to pick up some last-minute souvenirs or enjoy a stroll through Kema Sakuranomiya Park with its well-manicured lawns, bridges, and distant view of Osaka Castle. At the appropriate time, return to the hotel to meet your driver and transfer to the airport for your flight home. Safe travels!

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